Definition of Vestibular System

The vestibular system is a system of the body essential for spatial orientation and balance. In psychology, it explains the abilities to stand, move without falling, and focus the eyes on a single object even when the head is in motion. Located in the inner ear and consisting of three semicircular canals and two otolithic organs, the vestibular system sends information to the brain about the location of one's head in space. The brain uses information acquired via the vestibular system and other parts of the body (such as muscles) in order to maintain one's posture. Damage to the vestibular system can cause imbalance, difficulty maintaining visual focus, and vertigo (the sensation of motion even in stillness, or of exaggerated motion).